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Optical Opener by John Gusta Faro

Created by: John Gusta Faro

Optical Opener is a captivating card trick by John Gusta Faro, featured in Rune Carlsen's 'X (My 10 Go-To Card FX)' book. It involves an optical illusion where the spectator finds the only printed card in a completely blank deck, with a mind-blowing kicker that enhances the illusion. This trick is perfect for close-up magic performances and is suitable for hobbyist magicians or those with an intermediate skill level.

Key features

  • Utilizes an optical illusion for a surprising reveal

  • Part of a curated collection of 10 distinct card tricks

  • Includes access to a Facebook group with supplementary video content

  • Suitable for intermediate skill level magicians

Pros

  • High-quality, hardbound edition with full-color photographs

  • Engaging and accessible writing style

  • Supplementary video content for better understanding

  • Diverse range of effects with no filler material

Cons

  • Price point may be high for some at $50

  • Limited to card magic enthusiasts

Effect

The Optical Opener is a card trick that uses an optical illusion to create a surprising reveal. A spectator finds the only printed card in a completely blank deck. The effect has a strong kicker moment where the audience's perception is challenged, making the reveal even more impossible.

Full Details

The trick is credited to John Gusta Faro and originates from his second Storm book. It involves a clever use of visual deception, where the spectator believes they are handling a blank deck before the printed card appears in an unexpected way. The method relies on subtlety rather than complex sleight of hand, making it accessible to many performers.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy visual illusions and clean, impactful reveals. It works well for both close-up and parlor settings. Since it does not require advanced sleight of hand, it is suitable for intermediate performers or hobbyists looking for a strong opener in their routines.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Optical Opener is not a knuckle-busting trick. According to reviewer David from Magic Orthodoxy, the method is straightforward and can be learned quickly. The challenge lies in the presentation and timing to maximize the illusion's impact.

What Magicians Say

David describes the trick as having a "mind-blowing" kicker moment. He highlights that it is one of the standout effects in Rune Carlsen's book "X (My 10 Go-To Card FX)", praising its visual appeal and deceptive simplicity. The inclusion of supplementary video content in the book's Facebook group also helps clarify any finer points of the performance.

The Optical Opener is recommended for magicians who want a strong, visually deceptive trick that is easy to learn but leaves a lasting impression.

What people are saying about Optical Opener

magicorthodoxy says...

Optical Opener is a trick from John gusta Faro and it's from his second storm uh book in this trick The Spectator finds the only printed card in a completely blank deck but it's really an optical illusion because there's this cool kicker where they mind will be blown.

Review videos